Public Enemy's Latest Music Video Sparks Urgency to "Do Something" Amid Turbulent Politics
The provocative music video from Public Enemy, titled "The Hits Just Keep on Comin'," has dropped, serving as a rallying cry for change in a world ravaged by division and uncertainty. The Rhiannon Rae Ellis-directed clip seamlessly weaves together footage of revolutionary figures like Malcolm X, Martin Luther King Jr., and Muhammad Ali with Chuck D and Flavor Flav in a room full of televisions.
The video begins with a poignant depiction of Ruby Bridges walking into New Orleans' William Frantz Elementary School in 1960, marking the end of an era of segregation. This powerful scene is juxtaposed with scenes of actress Safara-Cree Stiggers playing a young Bridges, highlighting the enduring struggle for civil rights.
As Public Enemy's members trade bars over a driving guitar loop, they deliver a potent message of resilience and defiance in the face of adversity. Flavor Flav sets the tone early on, rapping "Knock us down, we won't stop now, B," while Chuck D reinforces this sentiment, emphasizing the importance of taking action to address the world's problems.
The video is a masterclass in messaging, interweaving powerful clips from the archives with modern-day heroes like Olympian water polo player Ashleigh Johnson. Johnson assumes various personas, paying tribute to icons like Prince, Tommie Smith, Serena Williams, and Amanda Gorman as Public Enemy delivers their signature blend of hip-hop and social commentary.
In an emailed statement to Rolling Stone, Chuck D reflects on the continued relevance of the lyrics, saying, "These lyrics are still relevant today as much as yesterday... It's time to wake up and DO something. Emphasis on the 'DO.'" Flavor Flav concurs, praising Johnson's performance and emphasizing the importance of the video's message.
The "Hits Just Keep on Comin'" music video serves as a timely reminder that change begins with individual action. As Flavor Flav puts it, "This music video got a real important history lesson... I'm very proud of the important artwork and messaging that Public Enemy continues to put out." With this powerful visual, Public Enemy urges viewers to take a stand, to engage in the conversation, and to demand change.
As we navigate our increasingly turbulent world, it's clear that Public Enemy's message is more urgent than ever. "The Hits Just Keep on Comin'" is not just a music video – it's a call to action. Will you answer?
The provocative music video from Public Enemy, titled "The Hits Just Keep on Comin'," has dropped, serving as a rallying cry for change in a world ravaged by division and uncertainty. The Rhiannon Rae Ellis-directed clip seamlessly weaves together footage of revolutionary figures like Malcolm X, Martin Luther King Jr., and Muhammad Ali with Chuck D and Flavor Flav in a room full of televisions.
The video begins with a poignant depiction of Ruby Bridges walking into New Orleans' William Frantz Elementary School in 1960, marking the end of an era of segregation. This powerful scene is juxtaposed with scenes of actress Safara-Cree Stiggers playing a young Bridges, highlighting the enduring struggle for civil rights.
As Public Enemy's members trade bars over a driving guitar loop, they deliver a potent message of resilience and defiance in the face of adversity. Flavor Flav sets the tone early on, rapping "Knock us down, we won't stop now, B," while Chuck D reinforces this sentiment, emphasizing the importance of taking action to address the world's problems.
The video is a masterclass in messaging, interweaving powerful clips from the archives with modern-day heroes like Olympian water polo player Ashleigh Johnson. Johnson assumes various personas, paying tribute to icons like Prince, Tommie Smith, Serena Williams, and Amanda Gorman as Public Enemy delivers their signature blend of hip-hop and social commentary.
In an emailed statement to Rolling Stone, Chuck D reflects on the continued relevance of the lyrics, saying, "These lyrics are still relevant today as much as yesterday... It's time to wake up and DO something. Emphasis on the 'DO.'" Flavor Flav concurs, praising Johnson's performance and emphasizing the importance of the video's message.
The "Hits Just Keep on Comin'" music video serves as a timely reminder that change begins with individual action. As Flavor Flav puts it, "This music video got a real important history lesson... I'm very proud of the important artwork and messaging that Public Enemy continues to put out." With this powerful visual, Public Enemy urges viewers to take a stand, to engage in the conversation, and to demand change.
As we navigate our increasingly turbulent world, it's clear that Public Enemy's message is more urgent than ever. "The Hits Just Keep on Comin'" is not just a music video – it's a call to action. Will you answer?
. They're like, totally speaking truth to power and encouraging us to take action for change. I love how they're using old footage of iconic figures like Malcolm X and Martin Luther King Jr., but also showcasing modern-day heroes like Ashleigh Johnson who's literally breaking barriers in the world of water polo 
. It's a powerful reminder that we all have a role to play in making the world a better place, and I think it's so important right now. We need more people using their platforms to speak out against injustice and advocate for equality 
. Can't wait to see what other powerful messages Public Enemy comes up with next 
gotta respect Chuck D and Flavor Flav for speakin truth to power... all those powerful images of history figures and modern-day heroes, it's like they're sayin "hey, we got this" 
the Ruby Bridges scene is especially emotional 
and Ashleigh Johnson killing it in that video 
what i love about this new vid is that it's not just about the music, it's about using your platform to bring attention to important stuff. like, have you seen safara-cree stiggers in that ruby bridges scene? giving me all the feels 
ashleigh johnson's performance as various historical figures is also insane 
we need more people like flavor flav and chuck d speaking truth to power and inspiring others to do the same 
i love how they've woven in modern-day heroes too, ashleigh johnson is a total boss 
. What's your take on it? 
. And don't even get me started on the fact that they're using footage of older figures to make their point... it feels like a shallow attempt to appear progressive instead of actually engaging with the complexities of the issues 
. I'm all for taking action, but let's not just rely on catchy hooks and cool visuals to drive the conversation 
. Public Enemy is always pushing boundaries and sparking conversations, and this video is just another example of that 
but at the same time i love how they're bringin' together all these iconic figures from history with modern-day heroes, it's like they're sayin' 'hey, change ain't gonna come overnight, we gotta take action ourselves!'